What is microdermabrasion (MDA)?
Microdermabrasion is a non-invasive superficial exfoliation treatment that removes the uppermost layer of dead skin cells (stratum corneum.)
How does microdermabrasion work?
Using a handheld device, a mild abrasion will be targeted to specific areas of the skin. Simultaneously, the device will vacuum up any excess crystals and dead skin cells while stimulating circulation to the epidermal layers of the skin. This drives nutrients and oxygen to the epidermis, which is void of blood vessels.
The crystals are responsible for removing dead skin cells. This prevents bacteria and debris from being trapped under the surface and restores vibrancy to the skin. Combined, the treatment stimulates collagen and elastin production. It stimulates cellular regeneration and promotes blood flow to the epidermal layers of the skin.
What are microdermabrasion treatments good for? How does it help acne?
Safe for all skin types, MDA is a slow and progressive process. Without removing pigment from the skin, it can improve uneven skin tone and issues with pigmentation.
Working in the superficial layers of the skin, it can aid in the appearance of acne scars, fine lines and wrinkles, and skin texture. The treatment reduces build up of sebum and debris in the pores and can help reduce pore size over time. It also reduces acne breakouts and oil production.
One of the best no-down-time anti aging treatments on the market, microdermabrasion promotes the production of collagen and elastin and actually helps thicken the skin.
It is great for maintaining healthy skin or correcting fine lines and wrinkles, acne scars, hyperpigmentation (age spots and sun damage,) uneven skin tone, mild to moderate acne, oily skin, dull, lifeless skin, and aging skin.
Acne is a disease of the hair follicle and involves the sebaceous gland. Stress and other lifestyle factors cause sebum production to increase. When sebum is in excess, the calcium gradient is altered and stimulates the proliferation of cells.
The abundance of new cells accumulate in the neck of the follicle. Additionally, acneic skin has a reduced ability to slough and exfoliate. The excess sebum plus the abundance of cells cause the follicle to become inflamed and engorged with bacteria. (Imagine a cork inside of a wine bottle.)
As we age, we heal slower. MDA speeds up the healing process by exfoliating dead skin cells more aggressively than the body. Dirt and bacteria are no longer trapped under the surface. This reduces the number of breakouts that would normally occur.
Pigmentation from acne break outs heal quicker because the treatment regenerates cells while removing the build up of skin.
What should I expect during my microdermabrasion?
The procedure is painless, but with minor discomfort. Keep in mind that some areas of the body are more sensitive than others. Your provider will cleanse the skin. Working counter clockwise, they will start with the right side of the forehead and finish with the left. Your skin may feel slightly itchy at first, but you will acclimate quickly. You may feel tender or sensitive around the eyes.
Any excess crystals will be removed with a sponge or towel. Moisturizers and SPF will be applied to nourish and protect the skin. Initially your skin will feel a sensation of cleanliness and smoothness.
How often can I have microdermabrasion?
This depends entirely on your skin. For reparative treatments, we recommend every 10-14 days. Lighter treatments can be received as soon as 7 days apart.
For maintenance purposes, we recommend every 4 weeks. The cells naturally turn every 28 days. To ensure they proliferate (multiply) rapidly, we need to shock the skin by removing the “protective” layer of skin (stratum corneum.)
By removing this layer, the basal layer (where daughter cells are produced) will be forced to replicate the cells. This will promote collagen and elastin production and thicken the skin layers.
Can I go back to work after microdermabrasion?
You sure can! Your skin may appear red for a few hours after the service, but that will subside. The stimulation of blood flow to the upper layers of the skin causes the appearance of redness, and this is a good thing.
Can I wear makeup after microdermabrasion?
Wearing makeup the day of service or within 24 hrs after is not recommended, in order to allow the skin to heal and breath for maximum benefit and results in your treatment. However, wearing it will not harm your skin in any way.
How should I prepare for my microdermabrasion appointment?
Discontinue use of any and all exfoliating agents 7 days prior to your MDA. Do not wax the week prior to a microdermabrasion. Avoid contact with the sun for 7-14 days prior to treatment. Avoid scheduling an appointment if you are red or burned for 14 days.
How do I take care of my skin after microdermabrasion?
Cleanse your skin with a gentle cleanser twice daily. Apply a moisturizer and always wear your sunscreen. Even if you are just going to and from your car. Avoid direct contact with the sun for the first 48 hours. Avoid exposure to the sun for the first 7 days. A broad spectrum (covering UVA and UVB rays) SPF 30+ must be worn.
Discontinue use of exfoliating serums or scrubs for 7 days. Resume use of your clarisonic and vitamin containing serums after 48 hours. Do not pick or scrub the skin! If you have any visible cellular regeneration (flakiness) apply more moisturizer and massage lightly during cleansing to help speed this process.
Who is not a candidate for microdermabrasion?
Clients with any of the following conditions should not receive MDA:
- active rosacea
- fragile capillaries or vascular lesions
- active onset acne (acne pustules)
- warts
- uncontrolled diabetes
- open sores
- active herpes outbreak
- If you are/were on Accutane you must wait 6-12 months before a microdermabrasion
Are there any risks with microdermabrasion?
The treatment is minimally invasive and safe. Most risks are a result of an unsanitary environment or implements.
Your provider should always be wearing gloves and using fresh gauze, sponges, and towels to cleanse the skin. The MDA tip should be sterilized before and after use. If you are coupling extractions with the service, the metal implement should be sterilized as well.
In some instances with more sensitive individuals, light bruising, persistent redness, scabbing, or mild peeling can occur. These symptoms will heal without any long term damage to the skin